H20 Architects

Villa Malevart

Paris - France - 2023

What would you expect to find at the end of a cul-de-sac in Paris’ lively 11th arrondissement? Likely not an almost transparent, ultramodern office building. Yet, that is exactly what awaits. This former 1930s car park has been brilliantly transformed into a light-filled workspace. Discover how Reynaers Aluminium’s innovative window systems played a crucial role in this remarkable transformation.

Lead architect Natalia Orbai from H2O Architects explains: “We had to bring the building into line with current performance and comfort requirements for all occupants. That is why Villa du Clos de Malevart has been provided with a completely new curtain wall exterior with integrated opening windows, allowing generous amounts of light to enter the workspaces.”

SlimLine 38 Windows, SlimLine 38 Doors and CW 50-SL Façades - Villa Malevart located in Paris, France

Embrace the light

Two minimalistic Reynaers Aluminium solutions made it possible to conserve the historical look and feel of Villa Malevart. Firstly, ConceptWall 50-Slimline façade systems offer ultimate freedom of design, while retaining maximum transparency thanks to their minimal profile widths. Next, SlimLine 38 aluminium windows recapture the charm of traditional steel joinery, an ideal solution for contemporary renovation projects. Both the curtain wall and window systems allowed for the creation of a bright building envelope featuring large glass areas.

As a result, what was once a dark underused space has been turned into a radiant environment that inspires creativity. The integration of large glazed surfaces not only enhances the natural lighting but also significantly improves the building’s energy performance, essential for a modern eco-conscious workspace.

Preserving the past, preparing for the future

The renovation respects the building’s historical essence while equipping it for future demands. Originally used as an overhead car park in the 1930s, Villa du Clos de Malevart has undergone a complete overhaul, with 3,500 square metres devoted to the development of offices and an urban logistics centre. The original concrete framework was preserved in its majority and now encompasses two patios and a significant glazed volume covering the top floors. A clear symbol of openness and transparency.

“With our architectural choices, we wanted to make good use of the existing half-levels to create continuous work areas, centred around a structuring staircase", Natalia Orbai continues. The roof level accommodates a meeting room overlooking the dead-end street, as well as a green roof terrace. This space is not just for work: it is a vibrant living area, complete with vegetable patches serving the rooftop restaurant. A picture perfect of sustainable architecture, and quite a surprise to find in a cul-de-sac.

Working in sustainable beauty

To guarantee that the Villa can face the challenges of a contemporary sustainable city, the French HQE (Haute Qualité Environnementale) building certificate constitutes an indisputable sign of quality. Moreover, luscious gardens on the roof and in the patios help to preserve urban wildlife, for which the building received an official biodiversity label.

This project not only provides a pleasant and energy-efficient workplace but also sets a trend for future renovations in urban environments, where light, energy efficiency, and sustainability are at the forefront. “It took us five years to study and complete the building, but the result is more than worth it. Good on the eye and a pleasant environment to work in”, the architect concludes.